Abstract

The use of dietary supplements is increasingly common in the United States and Europe. Dietitians are among the health care professionals regarded as experts on healthy diet and lifestyle and as such, their recommendations and beliefs regarding dietary supplements may have a significant influence on the use of dietary supplements by consumers. Recommending practices, personal use and beliefs were evaluated in this cross-sectional pilot study. 64% reported using dietary supplements, sometimes, often or very often, themselves for prevention of a health condition, 60% for treatment of a health condition and 44% for enhancing physical or mental performance. 71% indicated recommending supplements sometimes, often or very often for prevention, 82% for treatment of a health condition and 43% for enhancement of performance. Dietary supplements were considered at least moderately safe by 94% of the participating dietitians, while 75% of the dietitians considered dietary supplements at least moderately effective in preventing a health condition, 91% for treatment of a health condition and 59% for performance enhancement.

Key words: Dietary supplements, dietitians, CAM  therapy, mineral supplements.